Medicines
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Discover all available medicines and treatments
Brand: Invicor, Vecamyl
Mecamylamine is a nicotinic acetylcholine receptor antagonist that blocks the effects of acetylcholine at autonomic ganglia. It is classified as a ganglionic blocker and was historically used to treat hypertension but is now rarely prescribed due to its significant side effects. It acts by non-competitively inhibiting nicotinic acetylcholine receptors, preventing synaptic transmission at both sympathetic and parasympathetic ganglia. This leads to a decrease in sympathetic tone, reducing blood pressure.
Used to treat moderate to severe hypertension, particularly in cases resistant to other therapies, and off-label for Tourette's syndrome and ulcerative colitis.
Outcome:
Increased dizziness and orthostatic hypotension
Mechanism:
Additive hypotensive effects
Outcome:
Increased risk of dehydration and hypotension
Mechanism:
Additive effects on fluid balance and blood pressure
Outcome:
Slightly reduced antihypertensive effect
Mechanism:
Caffeine can slightly elevate blood pressure.
Most likely new formulation: extended-release oral dosage form (Year: 2028, 5% confidence)
Based on limited current usage and safety profile, the likelihood of a new indication approval within the next 5 years is estimated at <1%.
Ganglionic Blocker, Antihypertensive
Secondary Amine